FTUC calls for VAT to be exempt from basic food items

The Fiji Trades Union Congress says they would like to see VAT to be exempted from basic food items in the National Budget announcement tomorrow night.

As close to 115,000 Fijians have been affected through job losses or reduced hours as a result of COVID-19, FTUC National Secretary, Felix Anthony says exempting VAT from basic food items will help people cope during these difficult times.

Anthony says they would also like to see that the FNPF contributions by employers be restored to 10 percent from 5 percent at the soonest.

He adds that they feel that was a mistake by government.

Anthony says they hope that some form of assistance will be aimed at lessening the burden on workers that have lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

He says this should not just include people who are on minimum wage level but also include workers from Fiji Airways and ATS as well.